Murton, though, are buoyant following an exhilarating performance against neighbours Easington when Calvin Stephenson and Keith Chapman were rampant.

"Calvin has proved a very good signing since he joined us from Crook Town for the start of the 2002 season," added King. "He has produced several outstanding performances, but Saturday's display will take some beating."

The paceman had no fewer than 12 maidens in 16.1 overs, claiming five wickets for a mere six runs, and the evergreen Chapman returned 4-6 from the seven overs he sent down.

"The pair were tremendous and I cannot speak too highly of the contribution Keith has made to the club since he came to us in 1983," said King.

"He has taken over a thousand wickets in the League alone and picked up hundreds more in cup cricket.

"Now he is working effectively with Calvin and the pair are certainly a potent force."

It was not all roses against Easington, though, and at one stage Murton were tottering at 75-8 before Chapman, who finished unbeaten on 37, joined David Scorer in a ninth wicket partnership which added 68 runs.

"Those runs were important but, in the end, victory was down to Calvin and Keith dismissing Easington for only 45.

"It was a close call, however, since we only had 11 balls left when Easington stalwart Brian Fenwick was bowled.

"We are in good heart but just nine points better off than Hylton, so I am reminding everyone what happened last season."